In Episode 7 of The Four Seasons, titled “Ski Trip,” the series ventures into the winter season, bringing with it a snowstorm of emotions, revelations, and a shocking twist that redefines the dynamics of the close-knit group. The episode masterfully balances humor and heartache, setting the stage for a poignant exploration of relationships and the fragility of life.
The narrative splits the group into two separate ski trips. Anne joins Kate, Jack, Danny, and Claude for a New Year’s getaway, introducing her new boyfriend, Terry, into the mix. Terry’s presence stirs the pot, especially when Claude suspects he may have had a past encounter with him, leading to a series of comedic yet awkward interactions. Meanwhile, Danny grapples with lingering resentment towards Kate over past comments about Claude, culminating in a heartfelt apology that mends their friendship.
On the other side, Nick and Ginny embark on their own ski trip with Ginny’s friends. Nick struggles to connect with the younger crowd, feeling increasingly alienated. His discomfort leads to tension between him and Ginny, resulting in a heated argument. Seeking solace, Nick retreats to their room, indulging in a nostalgic farm game on his phone—a subtle nod to his yearning for simpler times.
Back at Anne’s ski trip, the group navigates their own set of challenges. Kate and Jack’s relationship hits a rough patch, with Kate expressing frustration over Jack’s perceived lack of initiative. Their argument reaches a boiling point when Kate accidentally drops her phone into a hot tub, symbolizing the communication breakdown between them. Claude’s quest to confirm Terry’s identity leads to a humorous hot tub encounter, only to discover that Terry isn’t the man from his past after all.
The episode takes a dark turn when Kate retrieves her dried phone and discovers multiple missed calls and messages from Ginny. The devastating news: Nick has died in a car accident after leaving the ski lodge alone. The revelation sends shockwaves through the group, with Kate and Jack tasked with delivering the heartbreaking news to Anne. Their attempt is thwarted when they walk in on Anne and Terry in an intimate moment, adding a layer of discomfort to an already tragic situation.
“Ski Trip” stands out as a pivotal episode that expertly weaves together elements of comedy, drama, and tragedy. The juxtaposition of lighthearted moments with the sudden loss of a central character underscores the unpredictability of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. The episode’s title, while seemingly innocuous, becomes a metaphor for the emotional descent the characters experience, culminating in a cliffhanger that leaves viewers eager for resolution.